Best Special Needs Schools in Perris, California (2026)

Oak Grove at the Ranch opened in Perris in 2006 as the second nonpublic school of Oak Grove Center, a nonprofit founded in Murrieta in 1989. We are certified by the California Department of Education and accredited by WASC, with Val Verde Unified as our local education agency. Our five self-contained special day classes, with capacity for 60 students ages 5 to 22, serve students with emotional disturbance, learning disabilities, developmental disabilities and autism, many with histories of severe social, emotional and behavioral challenges. Students work toward a diploma or certificate of completion with their home district, the GED, the CHSPE, or a vocational and transition track. Our autism classroom serves elementary and middle school students with functional academics, ABA, communication and independent living skills. Speech and occupational therapy are provided through IEPs, and licensed therapists offer counseling, case management and equine assisted psychotherapy. A point and phase system gives students daily feedback and privileges tied to progress. Students compete in CIF sports in the Freedom League, and older students can take community college or ROP classes and driver education as they work toward returning to public school.

• Nonpublic special education day school
• Emotional/behavioral support
• Learning differences
• Developmental disabilities

Pathways for Adult Life Skills, part of the Perris Union High School District, is dedicated to creating a nurturing and inclusive educational environment for students with diverse needs, particularly those requiring functional life skills training. Serving young adults, this program focuses on fostering independence and self-advocacy through specialized methodologies such as Community-Based Instruction and Workability. These approaches provide students with hands-on experiences that are essential for meeting their Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals while promoting personal growth in critical areas like collaboration, creativity, communication, and critical thinking. What sets Pathways apart is its commitment to maintaining a low student-teacher ratio, ensuring personalized attention and support. The school prides itself on strong family partnerships and a caring staff dedicated to empowering each student in their journey towards achieving their potential in a safe and supportive setting.

• Education center
• Public school

Val Verde Academy is a specialized educational institution dedicated to supporting students with diverse learning needs, particularly those with language-based learning disabilities. The academy's core mission is to provide a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child can thrive academically and socially, fostering their unique strengths and abilities. The academy offers a range of tailored programs designed to meet the individual needs of its students. Key offerings include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for behavioral support, the Orton-Gillingham approach for reading and literacy development, and comprehensive speech and language therapy. Additionally, Val Verde Academy provides occupational therapy to enhance daily living skills, social skills groups to promote peer interaction, and individualized education plans (IEPs) to ensure personalized learning pathways. What sets Val Verde Academy apart is its commitment to maintaining low student-teacher ratios, allowing for personalized attention and support. The campus is equipped with specialized technology to aid learning, and the academy emphasizes community integration through vocational training and summer programs that encourage skill development and social engagement. This holistic approach ensures that students not only achieve academic success but also build confidence and independence for their future.

• Special education school
• Learning differences
• Private school